Describe the sequence of events that occurs during locomotion to create forward propulsion of the animal

Folding of the limb = flexion

Moving the limb forwards = protraction

Stretching the limb = extension

Moving the limb backwards or fixing the limb and move the trunk forwards relative to the limb = retraction

Describe the differences in contribution from the axial skeleton/trunk in different species

Horses have a relatively rigid vertebral column so most of the propulsion/stride length results from limb movement. Cats have a flexible vertebral column which acts like a bow to increase propulsion/stride length from limbs

Flat - large surface area for attachment and protection of underlying structures

Short - large range of movement between bones, anti-concussive/shock absorbing

Sesamoid - redirect forces where there is a change in angle, reduces friction so prevents damage

Irregular - unique

What are bony bumps called?

Tuberosities/tubers/tubercles/processes

What are smooth areas (articular surfaces) on the surface of bones covered by?

Hyaline cartilage

Define these physical features that are visible in long bones on radiographs

Diaphysis = shaft

Cortex = wall

Medullary cavity = hollow centre

Epiphysis = proximal or distal end (articular surfaces located here)

Metaphysis = transition zone between epiphysis and diaphysis

Where does growth of bones occur?

At the physics/growth plate

List some of the palpable features of the scapula

Dorsal border

Cranial border

Scapular spine

Acromion process

What does the scapular spine divide the scapular into?

The suprascapular fossa and infrascapular fossa

Why is the caudal border of the scapula not palpable?

As it is beneath muscle

What can the acromion process be used to locate?

The shoulder joint

What part of the scapula articulates with the humerus to make the shoulder joint?

The glenoid cavity

What part of the scapula provides an area of attachment for the biceps brachii muscle?

Supraglenoid tubercle

How many centres of ossification does the scapula develop from?

Two

What process is present in cats just proximal to the acromion process?

Suprahemate process

What is present on the scapular spine of larger species?

A tuber

True or false: domestic species have a clavicle?

False

How are the forelimbs held onto the trunk in domestic species? What is the advantage of this?

They are held onto the trunk by muscular attachments alone. This allows the scapular to rotate along the side of the trunk (scapular glide). This results in a large range of crania-caudal movement of the forelimb relative to the trunk which in turn increases stride length when running.

Which muscle forms a sling that suspends the weight of the trunk between the forelimbs?

Serratus ventralis

What are tendons and why are they advantageous?

Tendons are condensation of fibrous tissue into chords. They are less bulky across joints, and only need small areas of attachments.